Dongfanghong 2 Satellite Launched into Space on Feb 1, 1986

China launches the Dongfanghong 2 primary television satellite into orbit on Feb 1, 1986. [Photo/sasac.gov.cn]

Dongfanghong 2 satellite launched into space on Feb 1, 1986

The Dongfanghong 2 primary television satellite was sent into orbit by a Long March 3 carrier rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Southwest China's Sichuan Province on Feb 1, 1986.

It was a proof that China had mastered the complete technology of the carrier rocket and a signal that its satellite communications system was operational.

Primarily developed by China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), Dongfanghong 2 was the beginning of China's independent development and launch of communication satellites.

East Africa's first urban light rail starts trial operation on Feb 1, 2015

The urban light rail in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa, East Africa’s first, went into trial operation on Feb 1, 2015.

Valued at $475 million, the railway was contracted by China Railway Group Limited (CREC) and CRRC Corporation Limited (CRRC) was responsible for the cars which were designed and manufactured by Chinese equipment to Chinese standards.

The railway was jointly operated by CREC and the Shenzhen subway consortium, the first time that management mode had been applied in Africa.

The project played a significant role in optimizing the city's urban traffic network and improved its regional economic growth while promoting Chinese railway technology.

(Executive editor: Wang Ruoting)